Brits taking cheap flights to India could benefit from a new investment programme.
Aviation minister Praful Patel explained: “We are in the process of either upgrading or setting up new airports across the country.”
He added the government is also keen to increase investment in other aspects of aviation including navigation systems and runways.
It is expected that the total number of passengers using India’s airlines could reach 50 million in 2010, compared to 44 million in 2009. The country has also steadily increased its number of airports to meet demand and now has a total of 92 – an increase of 47 since 2004.
The minister suggested that there may be a change in airline ownership rules which for the first time could allow international airlines to own up to 25 per cent of domestic carriers.
Last month, India’s aviation authorities delayed plans to prevent foreign pilots working on Indian commercial airlines for a further 12 months as demand for air travel remains high.
Written by Ruth Norris
